Most people will experience some form of trauma in their lifetime — whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden loss of a loved one, a violent act, exposure to war, or a natural disaster. Trauma can take many forms, and so can its symptoms. You might find yourself unable to shake distressing memories, having nightmares, feeling as if the event is still happening, or experiencing intense physical, emotional, or mental distress when reminded of it.

Other signs may include difficulty feeling joy or connection, a sense of detachment from yourself or the present moment, memory gaps related to the trauma, avoidance of people or places, sleep disruptions, irritability, anger, aggression, hypervigilance, difficulty focusing, or being easily startled.

It’s human nature to compare our experiences to others, often in an attempt to downplay our own pain. But trauma isn’t a competition. Its impact depends on many personal and situational factors — whether it was a single event or ongoing, who was involved, how safe you felt, and how supported you were. Trauma isn’t defined by what happened — it’s defined by how deeply it affects you.

If you’re finding it hard to cope with lingering emotional pain, fear, or confusion, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to face it alone. Seeking counseling for trauma is a courageous step toward healing.

We’re here to support you with compassion and understanding, helping you process your trauma and feel more empowered to live fully in the present.